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Lae Freeman participating in a past Polar Plunge. | Courtesy photo
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On April 2 Lae Freeman, a Social Service Practitioner III with San Bernardino County Children and Family Services, dove into the cold water of Big Bear Lake during the annual Polar Plunge event.
This was the seventh year that Freeman has participated in the event and braved the cold waters with several hundred others to help raise money for Special Olympics programs in the Inland Empire.
Over the years, Freeman has raised nearly $15,000 for the program that hosts sports programs for athletes with intellectual disabilities in Southern California. Last year, even when there was not a Polar Plunge due to COVID, he still held his own fundraiser to raise money for the Special Olympics.
This year, he is the top participant, having already raised more than $3,000.
On the job, Freeman investigates child neglect and abuse allegations and is committed to keeping children safe in San Bernardino County.
His Polar Plunge participation is an extension of his commitment to the community.
He credits his county friends and colleagues with supporting his Special Olympics fundraising over the years.
“For me, this is important because there are a lot of children and adults with intellectual disabilities that count on Special Olympics for enjoyment, socialization, and self-esteem,” he said.